Sudan (MNN) -- The United States has ordered new economic sanctions to pressure Sudan's government to halt the bloodshed in Darfur. The fighting in that region has displaced 2.5 million people, leading to a humanitarian crisis. Will the confrontation be effective? Christian Reformed World Relief Committee's Andrew Ryskamp: "At this point, it's a little early to tell what the impact is. The last time that there was increased pressure on Darfur, the security situation did improve somewhat. International attention on Darfur does have an impact." Ryskamp says while pressure can relieve the crisis, those in ministry are making preparations for strong long-term support in the region. "A number of Christian agencies have banded together so that our combined strength and influence can be used not only in Sudan but also in Chad, and increasingly, we're looking at ways that we can work in regions, especially where there's insecurity."

Full story: http://www.MNNonline.org/article/9968

Sanctions mark global disapproval over genocide

Sudan (MNN) -- Next, the question remains: will stricter sanctions against Sudan work? The unchecked Darfur crisis has spawned a humanitarian catastrophe in the region. Compassion Radio's Norm Nelson says they're working through the Sudan Council of Churches and through local pastors based in Khartoum. "We are reaching out to those who have been displaced by the terrible attacks that have been going on in Darfur and are living in United Nations' refugee camps." Aside from humanitarian assistance, Nelson says the partnerships allow their teams to tell the real story of what's going on behind the scenes of the crisis. As a result of their work there, "not only do we have the joy of helping these people who are in dire straits, but also a church has been planted. In fact, members of the African Union military force, which is there to keep the peace, have actually come to faith in Christ as a result."

Full story: http://www.MNNonline.org/article/9970